• What motivates people to collect?

  • Sources:

    The motivation behind why people collect things is multifaceted, with insights provided by various experts:

    1. Psychological Connection: Collecting often helps individuals create a physical connection to moments, places, or people that are significant in their lives. This sentimentality is evident in the example of collecting pins to remember special times and relationships 1.

    2. Sentimental Value: Similar to the previous point, people collect items that remind them of meaningful experiences or relationships, such as keeping items from childhood or family events 1.

    3. Joy of the Hunt: For many, the thrill of searching for rare items is a major driver. The excitement of potentially finding something rare or completing a set can be very fulfilling 1 2.

    4. Financial Investment: Some collectors are motivated by the potential financial value of their collections. This can be seen in the sneaker market where individuals buy and hold sneakers either to wear, resell, or showcase their worth 3 4.

    5. Community and Social Connection: Collecting can foster a sense of community by connecting collectors with like-minded individuals. Collecting certain items, like media NFTs, may grant access to exclusive communities or events 5.

    6. Functionality and Enjoyment: Sometimes, the motivation is straightforward. As with sneakers, there are practical and aesthetic reasons such as wearing them for sports, style, or personal enjoyment 3.

    7. Nostalgia and Memory Preservation: Collecting can serve as a way to preserve memories or connect to historical contexts. For example, holding onto items from significant historical moments or personal milestones provides a tangible link to the past 3 6.

    These motivations illustrate the complexity and personal nature of collecting, making it clear that each collector may have their own unique reasons for pursuing their hobby.

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